Alexandra Ballinger, MA, LMFT
alexandra@affinitypsych.com
Hi there! I’m Alex, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to helping teenagers, young adults, couples, and families navigate life’s hurdles with confidence—whether anxiety, depression, trauma, family stressors, major life changes, communication struggles, interpersonal challenges, or low self-esteem.
My journey in this field began with years of working with youth before I earned my master’s in marriage and family therapy from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and became a therapist. This allows me to offer a distinct viewpoint in my practice that encourages a nurturing space for development and healing. Engaging with young people has solidified my passion for empowering them to confidently step into adulthood and embrace a hopeful future.
On a more personal note, I’m a self-diagnosed weirdo, and I love all things spooky. I think I’m funny, but others may disagree (my brother). I’ve been married for almost thirteen years with no kids, but we have our adorable fur babies (cats), Floki and Finn.
How I Work
Sessions with me are a space where you can be exactly who you are. I approach therapy as a partnership where your lived experience takes center stage. I’m deeply intentional about building rapport, which is why so many of my clients have followed me throughout my journey. I believe that a foundation of trust is where the most meaningful growth happens.
I always have a fidget handy and frequently check in to see how our sessions are working for you. I have music playing whenever I can and love to learn about the music my clients listen to. Sometimes I wish life was a musical, and sometimes I forget that it isn’t. You might catch me singing randomly—apologies in advance. Whether we’re talking through the hard stuff, sharing a laugh, or using music and games to connect, I prioritize being real with you.
I bring my whole, authentic self to our sessions, which means I’m right there in the trenches with you—feeling the highs and lows as they come. I don’t believe in “clinical distance.” If you cry, I may cry with you; if you’re angry, I’ll feel that heat alongside you. It’s important to me that you see my humanity because we’re both just people navigating the beautiful, messy challenges of life together. By showing up as a real person, I hope to create a space where you feel safe enough to do the same.
I’m deeply passionate about ensuring no one walks their path alone, especially when hope feels out of reach. My mission is to hold hope for you until you’re ready to hold it for yourself.
What Sets Me Apart As a Therapist?
I’m not a regular therapist — I’m a “cool therapist.” I truly believe healing can be fun and doesn’t always have to feel like a heavy chore. Laughter is medicine. If we can get you to crack a smile during a session, you better believe we’re celebrating it! Life is messy and chaotic, so our sessions might be, too — and that’s perfectly okay. But when the world gets heavy, we’ll buckle down, get serious, and find the tools you need to tackle those obstacles head-on.
